1888 Trapdoor Rod Bayonet Unit Markings

[jake2009]

I own a 1888 Rod Bayonet Rifle in beautiful condition, SN 517447 with rack numbers in R side of buttstock as follows: 65 top (about 1.5 inch high) with 300 about 5/8 (approx. height) underneath. Any idea of meaning / unit identification possible? Old SRS shows SN about 50 earlier as Illinois NG.
Thanks Eric

[Dan Shapiro]

Without further info, I'd thing anything would be a WAG.

[jake2009]

Not sure I can provide any more info. 1891 cartouche (SWP)

[Dan Shapiro]

Some of it, unfortunately is just lost to time. I've also got an '88, I can make out "Co. B.........", and that's it. Have tried photography under different light, even with different filters........

[jnz]

Very likely a NYNG rifle, based on your description. Is the 65 marking formed by a number of short lines rather than the standard curves? Also, are there markings such as a letter and a number in front of the buttplate tang on the comb of the stock? Many times these markings will be found filled in with white paint. Click on the link for a history of the 65th Regt, U.S. Volunteers in the Spanish American war... http://www.spanamwar.com/65thNewYork.htm

[jake2009]

Thanks JNZ... no numbers on top of comb near buttplate. And yes, numbes are "squared" rather than curved